Posts by WMSWCD Admin
On the lookout for emerald ash borer in western Multnomah County
The emerald ash borer was found in Forest Grove (Washington County, Oregon) and state officials are asking the public to learn what it looks like and to report any sightings online at the Oregon Invasive Species Council hotline. This insect is now considered the most destructive forest pest in North America and will decimate native ash stands. …
Read MoreOur new Forest Conservationist
After a very competitive hiring process, Laura Taylor was selected as the District’s new Forest Conservationist, replacing Michael Ahr who now serves with Benton Soil and Water Conservation District in Corvallis. Taylor was formerly the District’s Conservationist & Education Coordinator and has been on staff since 2014. In her previous role, Taylor provided monitoring, project…
Read MoreHave you heard about Stormwater Stars?
Guest post by Stormwater Programs Specialist, Rachel Dvorsky Stormwater Stars are properties that have improved their landscaping to help manage rain in our city. By making improvements at many small sites we are creating a larger constellation of stars that together make a big impact. Do you have an area of your yard that is…
Read MoreWe’re looking for our new District Manager
District Manager – POSITION OPENING We are the West Multnomah Soil & Water Conservation District, a publicly funded special district conservation organization located in Portland, Oregon. Our mission is to provide resources, information, and expertise to inspire people to actively improve air and water quality, fish and wildlife habitat, and soil health. We do this by…
Read MoreSo what is GIS, exactly?
By Shahbaz Khan, GIS & Field Conservation Intern In the past couple of years, you might have come across the term “GIS” and found it puzzling. Being told it stands for “Geographic Information Systems” doesn’t really help since it sounds like something straight out of science fiction. If you’re anything like me when I first…
Read MoreGiving back to the soil – cover crops are an easy start
Reciprocity is the exchange of things for the mutual benefit of those involved. When talking about a relationship with soil on a conventional working farm or forest, there is often a one way exchange – growing food or fiber then just walking away. Chemical additives can make up for the nutrients that are taken from…
Read MoreTending a relationship with the forest
Up in the Tualatin Mountains (also known as the West Hills) just north of Forest Park in Portland, Oregon lies a patchwork of forest, pastures, fields, and homes where the Skyline Neighborhood community resides. West Multnomah Soil & Water Conservation District has worked with many residents of this community to improve forest and stream health.…
Read MoreNotice of Election for District Directors – November 2022
On November 8, 2022, Multnomah County will hold a general election including several West Multnomah Soil & Water Conservation District Board of Director positions, each are 4 year terms: Zone 4, Zone 5, and At Large Position 2. Zone boundaries, eligibility requirements, and copies of the required elections forms may be obtained by sending a…
Read MoreNotice of Budget Hearing – June 21, 2022
A public meeting of the West Multnomah Soil & Water Conservation District will be held virtually via video conferencing on June 21, 2022, following our Board of Directors meeting, which begins at 6:00 PM. Attend by emailing info@wmswcd.org with the subject line “Request for Zoom access code” or by calling 503-238-4775 and leaving a voicemail…
Read MoreDay in the life of an intern
By Jordan Delawder As a Field Conservation Intern with West Multnomah SWCD, I have ample opportunities to learn from the land itself, having direct encounters with the air, water, soil, and numerous beings that dwell therein. I spend most of my days outside, observing, asking questions, or using my hands. There’s never a dull moment,…
Read MoreClimate lens for conservation
(Photo: Cover crops on a farm field can improve soil quality and have the potential to sequester carbon.) There is a growing need to help environments and communities become resilient to climate change. We are working to adapt our conservation projects to meet the needs of communities and to better protect and preserve local ecosystems.…
Read MoreMeet our 2022 interns!
Jordan DeLawder (pictured left) graduated from Tufts University with a BS in Environmental Engineering. Jordan currently works at a farm and a produce market, and they are interested in bridging the gap between Portland’s urban center and nearby rural areas. Jordan spent several years studying herbalism and is an avid local forager. They are interested…
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